The Pentagon announced on Wednesday that John Phelan, the Secretary of the Navy, is leaving his post with immediate effect. The departure comes at a time of heightened tensions, with the US maintaining a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement released on social media, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed that Phelan was “departing the administration, effective immediately”. Reuters, citing an anonymous source, reported that Phelan had been fired by the Pentagon.
Hung Cao, the Navy Undersecretary, has been appointed as acting Secretary of the Navy. Cao will assume the role temporarily as the search for a permanent replacement begins.
Phelan’s abrupt exit adds to the turmoil within the Pentagon, which has seen several leadership changes in recent months. The blockade in the Strait of Hormuz remains a key strategic operation, with implications for global shipping and regional stability.
